Ronnie O’Sullivan poses with the trophy after winning the Betway UK Championship at the York Barbican, York.

Ronnie O’Sullivan claimed a record-equalling sixth UK Championship trophy after defeating Shaun Murphy 10-5 at the York Barbican on Sunday.

O’Sullivan demolished rival Shaun Murphy after an emphatic five consecutive frames saw him clinch the title – equalling the record of Steve Davis and Stephen Hendry.

The first session ended with a lock of horns – four-all. After 10 frames the pair were still at a stalemate.

However, this was when ‘The Rocket’ stormed to victory, winning five frames on the bounce. Crowd favourite O’Sullivan told BBC Sport: “I’m over the moon to win any tournament, especially the UK Championship.

“I try to enjoy the game, express myself and attack the game. I just love playing, I love competing and can’t believe I’m still playing at 42. I tried my best all week and there’s nothing left.”

The Rocket edged to an early lead, going 4-2 up but Murphy struck level with breaks of 69 and then 52.

It was the evening session in York, however, which saw O’Sullivan cruise to victory. With a break of 75, he edged ahead with Murphy then responded with an 80.

This frame proved to be Murphy’s last as O’Sullivan produced breaks of 104, 76 and then 103 to gain a three-frame cushion.

‘The Magician Murphy’ failed to capitalise as he missed the pocket on 49 in the 13th frame, which O’Sullivan clinically claimed.

42-year-old O’Sullivan confirmed the Championship victory and the £170,000 prize money with a 59 break in the next frame.

He now holds an impressive 31 ranking titles, only five behind Stephen Hendry.